SCHAUMBURG, Ill. -- Experian Automotive announced today that it has acquired auto research firm AutoCount.

AutoCount provides market-share reporting on vehicle sales and financing, said Scott Waldron, Experian Automotive's president. The purchase is part of Experian Automotive's plans to acquire complementary businesses that provide new products in new vertical or regional markets. The AutoCount Report -- information on new and used vehicle sales -- helps dealers and lenders make decisions about expansion, retention, competition and brand positioning.

AutoCount will continue operating out of its Casselberry, Fla., headquarters and will be called AutoCount, an Experian Company. AutoCount currently serves indirect lenders, dealerships, auctions and other auto industry companies nationwide.